Do you also come here to know whether powdered sugar is gluten-free or not? Are you also suffering from celiac disease? Well, we have the answers you need.
Yes, powdered sugar is usually gluten-free, but it depends on the ingredients. If the ingredients include granulated sugar and cornstarch, then it is completely sugar-free. Here, we will share every single piece of information in detail to help you understand the process. From its ingredients to its production, we will cover everything.
This brief guide will clear up all your doubts about powdered sugar and gluten-free sugar. Moreover, we will also share the best sources to purchase it and its best alternatives in case you can’t use it.
What Is Powdered Sugar?
Powdered sugar is a finely ground sugar with a powdery texture. It is also known as confectioners or icing sugar. It is commonly used in baking and dessert recipes and for pastries as well. It is made by finely grinding granulated sugar into a fine powder. Then cornstarch is added to it to prevent clumping.
This helps you get its smooth and silky texture. It dissolves easily into liquids and mixes well with other ingredients. It is often used in frostings, glazes, and icings due to its smooth consistency without any graininess. Moreover, it is also used for decorating cakes, cookies, and other baked goods. You can create a delicate finish by using it.
How Is Powdered Sugar Gluten-Free?
Powdered sugar is generally gluten-free because it is made from granulated sugar, which is free from gluten. It contains granulated sugar and cornstarch. Both of these are naturally gluten-free, so there’s no gluten in them.
However, it’s essential to note that cross-contamination can occur during the manufacturing process. It is often made in facilities that have gluten-containing products, and its purity could be at risk. To ensure it, buy from reputable and trusted brands that are approved by the FDA and follow strict gluten-free protocols.
Top 5 Gluten-Free Powdered Sugar Brands
There are several gluten-free powdered sugar brands. You can find local as well as international brands. But you must buy from a trusted and reputable source to ensure its purification from sugar. Following are the 5 best options according to our list.
- Simple Truth Organic Powdered Sugar
- Great Value Powdered Sugar (Walmart brand)
- Aldi Brand Powdered Sugar or Icing Sugar
- HEB Organic Powdered Sugar
- Wholesome powdered sugar
How Do You Make Gluten-Free Powdered Sugar?
Yes, you can also make gluten-free powdered sugar at home as well. The process is very simple. All you need is granulated sugar and gluten-free cornstarch. You may also use tapioca starch instead of it. Here’s how you can make it:
- Measure out 1 cup of granulated sugar and pour it into a blender or food processor.
- Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or tapioca starch to the blender.
- The next step is to tightly put the lid over the blender.
- Pulse or blend it until it becomes a powder. .
- After that, turn off the blender and open the lid carefully.
- The next step is to carefully transfer the powdered sugar to an airtight container for safe storage.
Other Gluten-Free Sugars
Alongside powdered sugar, there are also some other gluten-free sugars as well. These are some really good alternative options if you don’t want to use powdered sugar or are unable to use it for any other reason.
Caster Sugar
The first item on our list is caster sugar. It is also an amazing replacement for powdered sugar. It is also known as superfine or baker’s sugar. It is raw sugar without starch. It is completely gluten-free. It is generally used in bakeries or in drinks because of its faster dissolution.
Snow Sugar
The next gluten-free sugar we are going to checkout is snow sugar. It is also called non-melting powdered sugar. Its prominent qualities are that it does not melt or hold its shape. Check the ingredients on the packaging to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Brown Sugar
The third and last gluten-free sugar we have is brown sugar. It is completely free from gluten, unless there are any additives or cross-contamination. It is made up of molasses and granulated sugar.
These were the three other gluten-free sugars, along with powdered sugar.
Final Words
Yes, powdered sugar is completely free. Remember to look at the gluten-free label and other ingredients before purchasing any product containing them. Use our recommended brands because they have been tried and tested for this purpose.
If there are any flavorings or additives, consult your doctor first before using them. If you are cautious about it, you can also make it at home as well. Brown sugar is an amazing replacement if you don’t want to use it.